Inclusion Program Specialist

Position Summary The Inclusion Program Specialist helps to bring the JCC Value "The J is for everyone" to life by creating meaningful opportunities for people of all abilities to participate, connect, and belong. The Inclusion Program Specialist is responsible for facilitating meaningful inclusive participation in JCC programming for members and participants with disabilities, and/or that may benefit from additional accommodations. The position's primary focus will be in HaLev Early Childhood Centers, JCC school release time activities including camps, and adult social/recreational programming. A major focus of the position is supporting children, families, and teachers at both HaLev Early Childhood Centers. The specialist works directly with participants, families, teachers, instructors, program staff, and external support personnel. The role combines observation, individualized support planning, direct participant support, staff collaboration, and program preparation/execution. Early Childhood Inclusion: Partners with HaLev teachers and leadership, families, and the Director of Inclusion to support children in their classrooms identified by teachers and center director as needing additional support to be most successful in a classroom environment. The Specialist helps identify strengths and support needs, develop and implement individualized strategies, adapt classroom routines and activities, and strengthen teachers' capacity to create inclusive learning environments. Approximately 20 hours/week Adult Inclusion Programming: Develops and leads inclusive recreational and social programs for adults with disabilities, ensuring programs are engaging, safe, responsive to participant needs, and aligned with the J's mission, and support other adult inclusion programs as needed. Approximately 10 hours/week School Age Children's Programming: Supports inclusive participation in after-school programming, school-release days, and winter and summer camps. The Specialist works alongside program staff to help create welcoming environments where children of all abilities can participate and thrive. The Specialist helps conduct intakes, identify strengths and support needs, develop and implement individualized strategies, adapt classroom routines activities, and strengthen staff's capacity to create inclusive environments Approximately 10 hours/week Across all areas, the Specialist focuses on building relationships, increasing access and belonging, and developing sustainable inclusive practices that strengthen the J community. Weekly hours breakdown is an estimate and will fluctuate weekly and seasonally. Essential Functions This job description is not intended to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties or responsibilities required of the employee in this position. Activities, duties and responsibilities may change at any time with or without notice. Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of this position. HaLev Early Childhood (About 20 hours per week) Observe & Assess: Observe identified children in the classroom to better understand their strengths, needs, patterns of behavior, and barriers to participation. Develop Support & Behavior Plans: Partner with teachers, families, and the Director of Inclusion to develop individualized strategies and behavior support plans that promote successful participation and positive outcomes. Create Inclusive Classrooms: Help teachers adapt classroom environments, routines, activities, and expectations to support the participation and belonging of children with diverse needs. Coach & Build Capacity: Support teaching teams in implementing best practices for inclusion, positive behavior support, and responsive classroom strategies. Provide Targeted Support: Provide direct support to identified children when appropriate as part of an established support plan, while maintaining clear boundaries around the role of the Specialist and building teacher capacity. Partner with Families: Work collaboratively with families to understand children's needs and strengths and connect families with resources, accommodations, community services, and outside supports when appropriate. Monitor & Communicate: Track progress, document observations and interventions as appropriate, and communicate recommendations and next steps with teachers, families, and the Director of Inclusion. Adult Inclusion Programming (About 10 Hours Per Week) Develop and lead adult inclusive recreation programs and manage related expenses within established budget guidelines. Prepare for programs by reviewing participant needs, adapting activities, and organizing needed supplies. Adapt activities during programs to support participation, safety, positive social interactions, and participant well-being. Maintain cleanliness and organization of program space. School Age / Camp Programming (about 10 hours Per Week) Support inclusive participation for children of all abilities in Club J and Snowlami winter break camp. Guide staff in inclusive practices, accommodations, activity adaptations, and positive behavior strategies. Help oversee Advocates, as available, who provide direct support to children attending programs. Partner with families and program staff to address support needs and strengthen successful participation. Help create welcoming, accessible environments where every child can participate and belong. General Duties Maintain participant documentation, inclusion resources, and accommodation tools. Review participant and program outcomes with the Director of Inclusion and recommend improvements. Provide direct support to participants during assigned camps, adult programs, and other JCC programs. Adult Inclusion intakes for Adult Enrichment Programs. Help Partner with the Director of Inclusion to strengthen and expand inclusive opportunities across the JCC.